A knowledge base is emerging on the effectiveness of
mental health promotion which may be used to guide
effective policy and practice. This paper considers the
generic principles underpinning the practice of effective
mental health promotion. Reviews of the evidence base
are examined in order to identify evidence-based principles
of effective practice. The characteristics of successful
mental health promotion programmes and their application
in practice are identified and discussed. The cross-cutting
principles that guide the implementation of effective programmes
are discussed, and their implications for future
practice and policy developments are considered.